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Your Question:
Can I still be me if I'm not independent?
Answer:
The concept of independence is something that I've thought about a lot, especially in my role as a pastor. I believe that true freedom comes from a relationship with God, not from being independent. As the passage from Isaiah says, God delights in us and rejoices over us. This suggests that our existence and character are not determined by ourselves, but by God. In our family, I've seen that independence can be a burden. When we're faced with challenges, it's easy to try to bear them all alone, but that's not always possible or wise. As the passage suggests, our obedience to God often involves others and affects them in significant ways. My wife Susan and I have learned to rely on each other and on our community for support, rather than trying to be independent. In my own life, I've come to realize that I'm not in control of everything. My genes, upbringing, and circumstances have all shaped me in ways that I couldn't choose. While I'm free to make decisions and act on my desires, I'm not entirely free to wish as I wish. This realization has been liberating for me, as it's allowed me to let go of the need to be independent and to trust in God's sovereignty and love for me.
Sources:
dogmatic theology
shedd
systematic theology
wayne grudem
my utmost for his highest
oswald chambers
christian theology
millard erickson
biblical critical theory
christopher watkin
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